The North’s Momentum: The Rural Tourism Boom
Traditional living as our most valuable resource
After a decade and a half of field work and visiting every katun, one thing is clearer than ever – the time for the North of Montenegro is finally coming. What we once considered our greatest challenge is proving today to be our most valuable resource.
By: Jelena Krivčević
I believe in a true “boom” of rural tourism, but not one that is haphazard; rather, one grounded in authenticity and sustainable development. The world has changed. The modern tourist no longer seeks just a bed and food; they seek a story, an emotion, and participation in something real. The search for silence, clean mountain air, and non-industrial flavors has brought travelers directly to the doorsteps of our households in Bjelasica, Komovi, and Prokletije.
Our villages and katuns are not just places to rest; they are living museums of tradition where guests can experience a way of life that is slowly disappearing in the rest of Europe.
Throughout all these years at the Regional Development Agency (RDA BKP), we have learned that tourism in the North is not just about mountain peaks and trails. It is about the people. When we support a family in improving their household, or empower a rural woman to turn her traditional recipe into a business, we are not just creating economic value. We are preserving a community.
Rural tourism is the only branch that allows income to flow directly into the hands of those who work the hardest on the mountain. It is a way to retain our youth, to keep the katuns alive, and to give agriculture a new dimension through direct “at the doorstep” sales. The North of Montenegro offers rugged beauty and incredible biodiversity, but that is not enough.
Our work is focused on building upon the natural foundation with quality standards. Whether it is thematic routes like the “Cheese Roads” or digital promotion, the goal is the professional presentation of local authenticity.
However, we must be cautious. Development must follow ecological principles. We must not allow the pursuit of profit to cost us what tourists come for in the first place – untouched nature and peace. My vision for the North is a region of connected, strong rural communities. I see Prokletije, Bjelasica, and Komovi as destinations that sell not just a view, but an experience that transforms the visitor.
Rural tourism is our greatest chance to bridge the past we love with the future we strive for. It is the moment when we all become aware of how truly rich our villages are.
We still have much work ahead regarding infrastructure and education, but the foundations are solid. I believe in tourism that respects the host and protects the mountain. This “boom” I speak of is not just about stay statistics – it is about the revitalization of our entire region.
Jelena Krivčević
Jelena Krivčević has 15 years of experience in project management, including 10 years of experience in the Bjelasica, Komovi, and Prokletije region, and 5 years abroad. In various roles and positions, she has worked on the implementation of multi-million dollar projects in the fields of community development and economic growth in Montenegro and Georgia. She has provided consulting services primarily for USAID projects in Georgia, Serbia, and Kosovo, and has worked on the preparation and implementation of EU-funded projects.
